If there’s one fashion question that consistently comes up in breast cancer forums and survivor groups, it’s this:
“Where can I find swimwear for post-mastectomy that fits and flatters my new body?”
It was one of my biggest concerns when I was first diagnosed and preparing for a double mastectomy. I had chosen to go flat—and I was mad that the two brand-new, plunging-neckline bathing suits I had just bought from Andie might no longer work.
I remember six days after my surgery, as soon as my drains were removed, I ran upstairs to try on my black Andie one-piece. To my surprise and relief, the cut worked beautifully on my new flat chest. I felt like me again.
Choosing the Right Swimwear After a Mastectomy
Your ideal swimwear for after a mastectomy will depend on your personal reconstruction and recovery journey. Fortunately, today there are more options than ever—whether you’ve gone flat, had reconstruction, or wear a prosthesis.
For Women With Reconstruction
If you’ve chosen breast reconstruction—whether with implants or a DIEP flap—you’ll likely find that most standard swimwear still works well. You can explore all the styles you love without limitations.
For Women Who Wear Prostheses
If you’ve had a single mastectomy or wear a prosthesis, pocketed swimwear for post-mastectomy is a great solution. These swimsuits have built-in pockets to hold your prosthesis securely in place, so you can swim and lounge without worry. Some women do find a prosthesis heavy for swimming. I have friends who use a bathscrubber or a knitted knocker instead!
A couple of great options include:
Both are stylish and functional choices specifically designed as swimwear for post-mastectomy.
Rocking the Flat Look: My Personal Swimwear Story
Heading into my second summer as a flattie, I’ve found that there’s no shortage of amazing swimwear for post-mastectomy—especially for women who choose to go flat.
Some women adapt standard suits by removing padding or cutting out the cups. I love a plunging neckline now that I have no cleavage to manage. Andie’s deep V one-piece remains one of my go-tos, but I also just one like this for this summer and can’t wait to try it on!
Other styles I love:
- A halter tankini top from Anne Cole – flattering, secure, and perfect for flat chests.
- A one-shoulder suit with removable cups – adds elegance and softness.
- Rash guards – These are becoming a favorite among friends who’ve had radiation and want extra sun protection. Many come with SPF ratings built in.
Whatever your style, there’s swimwear for post-mastectomy that lets you feel beautiful, secure, and seen.
Post-Mastectomy Fashion: Wear What Makes You Feel Like You
Picking the right swimwear is ultimately about you—not society’s outdated expectations. In the first few months after surgery, I reinvented my wardrobe to reflect my new shape and new sense of self. Halters, open backs, and spaghetti straps—things I avoided as a D-cup—suddenly worked beautifully.
The same applied to swimwear. Some suits I never would have tried before suddenly looked great. I even reached out to Andie to share how their styles empowered me, and to ask for more inclusion of women with breast cancer in fashion. To my delight, they responded with open arms and featured me in their Fall 2022 Instagram campaign. That partnership continues today, with two good friends of mine featured in Andie’s 2024 October campaign.
Swimwear for Post-Mastectomy Is About Confidence
Let’s be real: feeling confident in your skin doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time. It took me time. But here’s what I’ve learned—swimwear for post-mastectomy shouldn’t be about covering up or settling.
It should be about celebrating your body, your story, and your survival.
Women who’ve had mastectomies—whether flat, reconstructed, or prosthetic—deserve fashion-forward, confidence-boosting swimwear. We shouldn’t be an afterthought. The fashion industry is evolving, but we’re the ones pushing it forward.
Final Thoughts: Dive In, Just as You Are
Whether you’ve had a mastectomy or not, the right swimsuit is the one that makes you feel confident. For me, that confidence came with embracing my scars and rocking my flat chest with pride.
For others, it might mean finding the perfect prosthesis-friendly one-piece or sun-safe rash guard. Whatever path you’re on, you deserve to feel good in your skin.
Swimwear for post-mastectomy isn’t about hiding. It’s about showing up—strong, beautiful, and ready to take on the world, one beach day at a time.
